Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton has revealed how visiting the Sporting Chance clinic has benefited his life and helped improve his form on the pitch.

The 23-year-old contract rebel, who has not had an alcoholic drink since being sent home in disgrace from the pre-season tour of Thailand, believes he has changed for the better after undergoing a programme of rehabilitation at the clinic.

Barton admitted he felt apprehensive when he first arrived but now has nothing but praise for the way they helped him.

"My first reaction was that I was not mad and that I could deal with it myself," said Barton.

"I was expecting to see people in straight jackets and Jack Nicholson to come in like a scene from the film 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest'.

Worries

"But when I came away from the place I felt as though I had left a bag full of worries down there. I think that has shown on the pitch this season."

The midfielder was banished from the Thailand tour after allegedly lashing out in a hotel bar at a 15-year-old Everton fan and then team-mate Richard Dunne when he intervened.

In a remarkably frank interview with BBC radio, Barton said: "The thing with me was not how much I was drinking but I would get into trouble when I had a drink.

"What I realised was that as a professional player you have to make the most of what you have got and give it 100%.

"For that reason I have not had a drink since being sent home from Thailand. It is not where I want to go with my life.

"I find it beneficial for my career not to do it.

"Of course I have been tempted. It makes your forget your problems. But that would be the easy way.

"You wake up the next day with a massive headache and the same problems."

Barton intends to resolve his contract dispute this week and insists he is committed to remaining at Eastlands.

He stunned City by handing in a transfer request last week, which was turned down by the Barclays Premiership club.

Backlash

Barton admits he may have been headstrong but insists his unhappiness at the failure of the contract talks to develop prompted his decision to request a move.

The move brought a backlash from fans but now Barton is set on agreeing a new deal so he can focus on matters on the field.

Barton told Sky Sports News: "All I know is talks have started or are due to start again very shortly.

"Hopefully we can get this matter resolved before the next game."

Should Barton be admired for speaking so frankly about his problems? Have your say.